Independent dealers cover everything from reputable, long-established dealerships to tatty sites with a Portakabin. Their main attractions are lower prices than at franchised dealers, and legal protection under consumer law.
If you're considering buying independently, keep your wits about you. Ask for personal recommendations from your friends. Find out how long a dealer has been trading. Does he do his own pre-sale preparation; if so, what does the workshop look like?
Three reassuring signs at independent dealers are RMIF (Retail Motor Industry Federation) membership, VBRA (Vehicle Builders & Repairers Association) membership if there's a workshop, and availability of AA or RAC pre-sale inspection schemes.
INSIDER INSIGHT - INDEPENDENT DEALERS:
- Is there a pre-sale inspection report? Check faults have been rectified.
- Ask to see the car data check (HPI check).
- Ask to see logbook (V5), service record and MoT certificate.
- Is a warranty included or extra?
- Watch out for expensive car finance deals.
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